Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the five common struggles of owning and operating dance studios:
Work/Life Balance
Financial Instability
Hiring and Management
Gaining Competitive Edge in Saturated Markets
Keeping Up with Trends
Today, let’s dive into longevity in the dance studio business and the importance of staying current with industry trends. Often, we find ourselves clinging to practices simply because they’re how our dance teacher did things or because "that’s the way it’s always been done."
Innovate with Your Schedule
One significant shift I made about twenty years ago was transitioning from offering summer sessions and camps to running a year-round dance season. This approach allows me to create one schedule that runs from July 1 through June 30. Most parents appreciate securing the same day, time, and teacher for an entire season and prefer paying $90 per month for ongoing classes rather than $250 for a one-week camp.
Embrace Key Trends
Here are some additional trends to consider:
Non-Transactional Buying: Make it as simple as possible for parents to register, participate, and stay engaged with your studio. Convenience is key.
Mobile-First Digital Marketing: The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and mobile devices dominate. Ensure your website, ads, and communications are optimized for mobile use.
Sell the Experience: Focus on the benefits for the dancer—confidence, creativity, community—rather than just the logistics of the class or recital.
Invest in Longevity
By embracing change and prioritizing the customer experience, you’ll position your studio for long-term success. Staying adaptable and forward-thinking ensures your business remains relevant and competitive.
Join Me for More Insights
For more strategies and time to focus on your growth, join me at the Pinnacle Dance Conference and Retreat this summer. Happening July 18-20, 2025, at the Omni Royal Orleans, this weekend getaway is designed to help studio owners reconnect, learn, and elevate their businesses.
Meet Tiffany Henderson
Tiffany Henderson is a leader in the dance industry and a seasoned business expert. She owns and operates multiple Tiffany’s Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in over 300 dance studios worldwide.